Westin Poinsett Hotel: A Timeless Stay in Greenville, SC

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Westin Poinsett Hotel - The entry to the Westin Poinsett.
The entry to the Westin Poinsett. Photo credit: Robin O’Neal Smith

Steeped in history and luxury, the Westin Poinsett Hotel by Marriott is a beacon of timeless elegance in the heart of charming Greenville, South Carolina. With its landmark status and coveted location, the Poinsett is a must-visit hotel for anyone seeking a slice of Southern splendor.

The Poinsett Hotel in Greenville, South Carolina, has a rich historical tapestry woven into its beauty and charm. Constructed during the peak of Greenville’s “building boom.” The interior features magnificent woodwork and prestige construction in a Beaux-Arts style.

The hotel is named after the person who brought the famed Poinsettia flower to America. This floral legacy blooms annually through the hotel’s astonishing display of poinsettias around Christmas, connecting guests with a piece of botanical and cultural history.

I visited this past holiday season, and the giant, stunning Christmas Tree, and the numerous poinsettias throughout the hotel were gorgeous. Let me give you a glimpse of what you can expect from a stay at this historic grand hotel.  

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Westin Poinsett Hotel - A photo of Joel Poinsett who brought the Poinsettia to the United States.
A photo of Joel Poinsett who brought the Poinsettia to the United States. Photo credit: Robin O’Neal Smith

A Brief History of the Poinsett

The Westin Poinsett Hotel dates back to 1925. When it opened, it was considered “Carolina’s Finest.”  The elegant 12-story hotel is named after Joel R. Poinsett, a statesman, U.S. Ambassador to Mexico, and Secretary of War under former President Martin Van Buren. Poinsett introduced the poinsettia flower he found in Mexico to the United States.

Over the years, many illustrious guests have stayed at The Westin Poinsett Greenville, including Amelia Earhart, John Barrymore, Cornelius Vanderbilt, Bobby Kennedy, and Liberace.

One of the Historic Hotels of America, it was renovated to its original grandeur, maintaining its historic architecture and original features, the Poinsett is a revered symbol of Greenville’s past, exuding the grace of a bygone era.

Westin Poinsett Hotel - The roomy guest room at the Westin Poinsett
The roomy guest room at the Westin Poinsett Photo credit: Robin O’Neal Smith

Luxurious Guestrooms

The guestrooms at the Poinsett are a quintessential blend of historic charm and modern comfort. Every detail, from the plush bedding to the tasteful decor, exudes a sense of refined luxury. High ceilings and spacious layouts give each room an airy, luxurious feeling. The Poinsett is a Four Diamond AAA hotel and a top-rated hotel on TripAdvisor.

Modern room amenities such as the Westin Heavenly Bedยฎ, high-speed internet, and flat-screen televisions ensure guests enjoy a comfortable and convenient stay. Each suite has an expansive walk-in closet. There was plenty of room for an extra chair and some suites had a sofa creating a living room area.  

During my four-night stay at this Greenville hotel, I was captivated by the grandiosity of the rooms. The enormous space provided a comfortable and decadent retreat from the chilly explorations of Greenville’s holiday streets. My room overlooked Greenville downtown and I could watch shoppers bustle about with their holiday shopping.

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Westin Poinsett Hotel - Beautiful bright red poinsettias adorned every corner of the hotel.
Beautiful bright red poinsettias adorned every corner of the hotel. Photo credit: Robin Oโ€™Neal Smith

Pet-Friendly Rooms

Some rooms are pet-friendly, and the hotel even offers special treats for Fido when he stays there. Dogs weighing 40 pounds or less are welcome. There is an extra USD $50 per night fee, and only one pet is allowed per room.  

Westin Poinsett Hotel - The gigantic Christmas Tree in the Westin Poinsett.
The gigantic Christmas Tree in the Westin Poinsett. Photo credit: Robin O’Neal Smith

The Lavish Spirit of the Holidays

Stepping into the Poinsett Hotel during the festive month of December, one is immediately embraced by an extravagant holiday atmosphere. It’s a Christmas wonderland featuring the largest indoor tree I have ever seen. The lush and vibrant poinsettias that deck the halls everywhere you look warmly welcome travelers and symbolize the season’s essence.

Westin Poinsett Hotel - Evening entertainment is provided on select nights.
Evening entertainment is provided on select nights. Photo credit: Robin Oโ€™Neal Smith

Dining at the Poinsett

No visit to Greenville is complete without indulging in its vibrant culinary scene, and the Westin Poinsett is no exception. Dining at the Westin Poinsett offers an epicurean experience that delights the senses. At Spoonbread Restaurant, serving American fare, guests can savor Southern cuisine made from locally sourced ingredients. They serve breakfast and lunch. The room features antique light fixtures, 20-foot ceilings, and historic moldings.

The Piano Bar in the lobby to the left of the front desk offers a more casual setting for enjoying handcrafted cocktails and lighter fare. On select nights, live jazz performances add a touch of sophistication and ambiance.

For a coffee and quick breakfast, check out Joel’s Java coffee shop. They serve fresh breakfast items, such as fruit and granola parfaits.

Other Amenities

The Poinsett boasts a range of amenities designed to cater to its guests’ needs and indulgences. Fitness enthusiasts can maintain their routine at the hotel’s WestinWORKOUT Fitness Center. The hotel provides a business center, state-of-the-art meeting, and event spaces for business travelers, ensuring that work engagements are met with the professionalism they deserve.

They offer free wifi, dry cleaning service, daily in-room housekeeping, a convenience store, 24-hour room service, mobile keys, digital check-in,t and express check-out.

Each room has a standard, coffee maker, iron, ironing board, and hairdryer.

Westin Poinsett Hotel - A Ballroom Area in the Westin Poinsett.
A Ballroom Area in the Westin Poinsett. Photo credit: Robin O’Neal Smith

Events and Weddings

The Westin Poinsett is not just a hotel but also a premier event and wedding venue in Greenville. With over 10,000 square feet of flexible space, including the stunning Poinsett Ballroom with its crystal chandeliers and grand staircase, the hotel can accommodate events of all sizes. The experienced staff and dedicated event planning team will ensure that every detail is handled for your special occasion.

I can only imagine how gorgeous wedding photos would be in this hotel.

Special Packages and Promotions

Be sure to check their website for special packages and promotions. During the holidays, they featured a “Home Alone” experience. Guests could experience many activities Kevin enjoyed in the film, including eating in bed and jumping on it too!  

Westin Poinsett Hotel - Greenville Sign in public area.
Greenville Sign in the public area. Photo credit: Robin Oโ€™Neal Smith

Local Attractions

The hotel’s prime location in the heart of downtown Greenville makes it an excellent base for exploring all the city offers. Take a stroll down Main Street and discover charming boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants.

Visit Falls Park on the Reedy, a tranquil oasis with beautiful gardens, walking trails, and waterfalls. For those looking for cultural experiences, the Peace Center for the Performing Arts and the Greenville County Museum of Art are just a short walk away.

Animal lovers will enjoy a visit to the Greenville Zoo, located a mile from the hotel.  

Location

The Westin Poinsett is 13 miles from the Greenville-Spartanburg airport and they offer a free airport shuttle. The hotel’s address is 120 South Main Street, Greenville, SC 29601.

The check-in time at The Westin Poinsett, Greenville, is 3:00 p.m., and the check-out time is 12:00 p.m.

The Westin Poinsett offers on-site self-parking and valet parking. Both parking options charge a fee. A car charging station is available.

In Greenville’s vibrant downtown center, the Westin Poinsett is just steps away from the city’s best shopping, dining, and entertainment. Its prime position allows guests to immerse themselves in the local culture, whether strolling along the scenic Reedy River, exploring the bustling Falls Park on the Reedy, or taking in a show at the Peace Center.

I loved the fact that we were within walking distance of about everything in Greenvilleโ€™s downtown

Whether traveling for business or leisure, the Westin Poinsett, Greenville offers an excellent experience that combines modern convenience and timeless charm. The hotel’s prime location in the heart of downtown Greenville allows guests to easily access all the city offers, from shopping and dining to cultural attractions and outdoor adventures. And with its rich history and commitment to exceptional service, a stay at the Poinsett is truly the clear choice for the luxurious escape you seek.


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